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Williamson ’ s Newest Trade Begins Construction Technology-Electrical Emphasis
Williamson ’ s first new trade in 30 years , Construction Technology-Electrical Emphasis , began fall semester with 20 freshmen enrolled .
Following an intensive two-year study , the board of trustees approved the creation of the new program for an intended fall 2022 start . For the past two-years the administration and staff worked continually with the federal and state Department of Education , the college ’ s accreditation agency , and industry experts to successfully develop and outfit the new program .
Upon completion of the 3-year program , graduates will have acquired the needed knowledge and skills to become apprentice electricians , building a foundation to become master electricians , superintendents , project managers , and construction managers .
The new program has proved to be very popular , attracting over 100 applicants . This fall , 20 electrical students
Wiley Scott , the group senior vice president for Young Life , addressing the students as the keynote speaker at the 132nd Convocation , said “ My theme for you for this year is fight the good fight , finish the race , and keep the faith .”
Scott told the students it is important to finish what you start . “ You guys are the best of the best . Don ’ t mess up this opportunity . No one is in this room by coincidence . You guys have to understand that God has a plan for you . I ’ m a testament to that .”
He then told the audience of his life ’ s experiences , growing up in the projects in Florida with an absentee father and a drug-addicted mother . “ There ’ s no way I should be standing here except for the fact that the Lord had a plan for me and I think that ’ s true for the folks in this room .”
Scott said basketball was his way out and his coach was his mentor . His coach told him he should go to college began with great excitement and enthusiasm upon their Williamson journey . Brent Ebner , the program ’ s director , has been impressed with the energy and desire to learn that many of his students have been exhibiting .
Similar to other Williamson programs , the electrical program curriculum is structured on a building block strategy with students learning basic electrical skills and the paramount need for safety in all aspects of the field . The program then will expand , focusing in the first year on residential electricity , then commercial in its second year and , finally , light industrial work during the senior year .
In addition to earning an associate degree , students in the new program will also be receiving Level I-IV certifications through the National Center for Construction Education and Research , an industry-recognized credentialling source that will provide graduates an
Scott Inspires Students at the 132nd Convocation
rather than do unskilled work because he has what it takes to succeed . “ That day shaped the rest of my life . When I think of that day I think of Williamson .” He then told the story of meeting a Williamson alumnus who told him Williamson shaped his life . He spent 30 years in a career that allowed him to provide for his family .
“ I really encourage you guys to not mess up this opportunity . Don ’ t take this for granted because it will not only change you , but will change the future of your kids and their kids .”
He said there are three things he thinks the Lord wants him to share , things that transformed his life - love , sacrifice and obedience , and prayer .
“ The Bible says ‘ We love because He first helped us .’ ” He said when he was in college he hated himself . While attending a speech , a man talked about how the Lord loved him so much he was willing to die for him . That changed
Wiley Scott , the group senior vice president for Young Life , giving the students important advice as the 132nd Convocation ’ s keynote speaker .
Williamson ’ s first class of Construction Technology-Electrical Emphasis students in the Electrical Shop with the program ’ s director Brent Ebner .
additional edge in the competitive job market .
In addition , alongside the carpentry and masonry programs , students in the electrical program , via Williamson ’ s new articulation agreement with Rowan University , will also be receiving credits
everything for me . You are loved , you have what it takes , and God has a plan for you .”
He said , “ If you are looking for an easy way out , you should probably leave this place . It ’ s going to require some work and sacrifice .
“ The third thing is prayer . I don ’ t think you can be successful or accomplish anything if you don ’ t believe in something bigger than yourself .”
Scott pointed out that Williamson graduates ring a bell after receiving their diploma . Addressing the seniors , he said “ Finish what you start and ring that bell . I promise you , you cannot do this by yourself . You have a God that loves you and who is with you .”
At the conclusion of his speech , President Michael Rounds presented him with a memorial wooden box with a picture of Rowan Hall on the lid .
In her opening remarks , Dr . Michelle Williams , vice president of academic affairs and CAO , said “ I welcome all of the Williamson community to the start of a new academic year . Students , you have a tremendous opportunity . You need to make every day count . Make each day successful and significant . Make sure you enjoy the process . Let us all remember what a blessing Williamson is in each and every one of our lives .”
Williams presented the honor of faculty emeritus to Louise “ Cissie ” Reynolds , who taught communications at Williamson from 1988 to 2018 . The faculty emeritus award honors faculty who have retired from Williamson , but have left an indelible mark on the community during their years of service .
Williams said , “ We are proud to celebrate Cissie Reynolds who has been a pillar in the community and who cares
toward a future bachelor ’ s degree .
For more information on the electrical program or Williamson ’ s other trade programs , or if you know a young man interested in applying , please see the college ’ s website at www . williamson . edu .
not just about the students , but also about the faculty and staff . Her care ran much deeper than the nine to five work day . She was an exceptional speech teacher who was very dedicated to her craft . Williamson is eternally grateful to her and her years of service to the college . This honor is well deserved .”
In his opening remarks , President Michael Rounds said , “ Mary Nell and I are starting our tenth year here and are just as excited and enthusiastic as we were ten years ago . It is just an amazing place to serve .” He pointed out that the Class of 2W5 , with 124 members , is the largest freshman class in Williamson history .
Chaplain Mark Specht 7W7 gave the invocation and benediction , Sean Howat , assistant chaplain , gave the responsorial psalm and pledge of allegiance , Jason Minch , senior class president , read scripture , and the Artisans led the singing of the alma mater .
Dr . Michelle Williams ( left ) hands Cissie Reynolds her emeritus plaque .